Restored and colorised film shows Brussels in 1908.

Amazing footage of our city has emerged on YouTube – restored and colorised film shows Brussels in 1908. A Dutch Youtuber “Rick88888888” has enhanced and colorised the eight minute piece of footage filmed over a century ago in 1908 using new technological tools such as Artificial Intelligence software.

Viewers are transported into an era when Brussels was entirely different – from streets and architecture to daily lifestyle and fashion. One can get a clear idea of the so-called Belle Epoque era and this is what makes this movie very unique – giving a chance to younger generations to understand how the city and entire way of life transformed over time.

The video shows Brussels while it was under the reign of Leopold II. Viewers can explore the city from all sides – from Tervuren to Cinquantenaire Parc, Schuman area (nowadays EU Quarter) to Royal Park, the Cathedral of Saints Michel and Gudule and Gare du Nord.

The published footage is in fact not entirely new, as the original came from the Prelinger Archive collection and has been online since 2013. However, that version was silent and in black and white.

You can also find out more details on this link. (in French)